Winning Waterfall Names Announced by Cloudland Canyon State Park

Cherokee Falls & Hemlock Falls

TRENTON, GA, May 3, 2011 — After Cloudland Canyon State Park announced its “Name the Waterfalls” contest in February, more than 800 park fans submitted suggestions for the two cascades. Names ranged from long-forgotten Cherokee words to those honoring loved ones. Picking just two was difficult, with park officials choosing names that described the waterfalls’ scenery and reflected on their Native American past. Waterfall #1 will now be called Cherokee Falls and Waterfall #2 will be named Hemlock Falls.

Cherokee Falls was submitted by three visitors: Caroline Gregor of Rising Fawn, Ga., Gilbert Moore of Rising Fawn, Ga. and Libby Harpring of Indianapolis, Ind. The winning Hemlock Falls name was submitted by Joe Gottfried of Fayetteville, Ga. All four win a stay in the park’s campground or cottages, an annual disc golf pass, Canyon Grill gift certificates and the right to brag to friends that they named two of Georgia’s beautiful waterfalls.

The park decided to run the contest because their two popular waterfalls have never had formal names.
Officials have always called them simply “waterfall #1” and “waterfall #2.” The rangers decided they needed help in christening the waterfalls with names that are as pretty as the falls themselves. Among the more frequent suggestions were Tranquility Falls, Serenity Falls and Majestic Falls. More unique suggestions were Whole Hog Falls, Razzle Dazzle Falls and Wondrous Beauty Waterfall.

Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, Cloudland Canyon is one of the most scenic state parks in Georgia, offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas. The park straddles a deep gorge cut into the mountain by Sitton's Gulch Creek, and elevation differs from 800 to 1,980 feet. The most spectacular view into the canyon is found near the picnic area parking lot; however, hikers who explore the bottom can see the waterfalls. Cottages and campsites are available for overnight guests.